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Home » Tutorial » Ukulele Standard Tuning: The Essential Guide for Perfect Pitch

Ukulele Standard Tuning

Last updated April 22, 2025

Ukulele Standard Tuning: The Essential Guide for Perfect Pitch

  • Proudly written by Pro-Ukulele Player,
  • Lewis Turner
  • 6 Comments
  • Ukulele | Guitars

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What is Ukulele Standard Tuning?

A ukulele gets its lovely sound from a special way of tuning the strings, known as standard tuning.

The standard tuning for a ukulele is GCEA, which means the strings are tuned to the notes G, C, E, and A, respectively. 

The G string is typically tuned to a higher pitch than the other three strings, which are tuned to lower pitches.

Standard Tuning For A Ukulele Is Gcea
Table of Contents

Why is Ukulele Standard Tuning Important?

Ukulele standard tuning is important because it allows you to play along with other musicians who are also using standard tuning.

It also helps you to develop your ear for pitch and to recognize when your ukulele is out of tune.

Plus, using standard tuning can make it easier to learn new songs and play along with recordings.

How is Ukulele Standard Tuning Achieved?

To achieve standard ukulele tuning, you must use a tuner or another reference pitch to tune each string to the correct note.

You can use online ukulele tuner, a clip-on tuner, a chromatic tuner, a smartphone app, or another instrument, such as a piano or guitar to help you tune your ukulele.

How To Tune A Soprano Ukulele By Ear

When tuning your ukulele, it’s important to tune each string in the correct order, starting with the G string and working your way down to the A string.

You should also tune each string to the correct pitch, as indicated by your tuner or reference pitch.

Types of Ukulele Standard Tuning

High G Tuning

High G tuning is the most common type of standard tuning for the ukulele. In this tuning, the G string is tuned an octave higher than you would expect from a guitar point of view. The other strings are tuned to their standard pitches, with the C string being the lowest and the A string being the highest.

Low G Tuning

The G string is tuned to a lower pitch than in high G tuning in this tuning. This gives the ukulele a deeper, richer sound, similar to a guitar. The other strings are tuned to their standard pitches, with the C string being the lowest and the A string being the highest.

ADF#B Tuning

ADF#B tuning is a type of standard tuning that is used for the baritone ukulele. The strings are tuned to A, D, F#, and B in this tuning. This tuning differs from the standard GCEA tuning used for the soprano, concert, and tenor ukuleles. The ADF#B tuning gives the baritone ukulele strings a deeper, more resonant sound similar to a guitar.

D-Tuning

D-tuning is a type of standard tuning that is used for the baritone ukulele as well. The strings are tuned to D, G, B, and E in this tuning. This tuning also differs from the standard GCEA tuning used for the soprano, concert, and tenor ukuleles. The D-tuning gives the baritone ukulele a brighter, more cheerful sound similar to the other types of ukuleles.

Tips for Tuning

1. Use a Clip-On Tuner

A clip-on tuner is a small device that attaches to the headstock of your ukulele and detects the pitch of each string.

It’s an easy and accurate way to ensure your ukulele is in tune. Simply pluck each string and adjust the tuning pegs until the tuner indicates the correct pitch.

2. Pay Attention to Tension

Tuning your ukulele too tightly can cause the strings to break while tuning it too loosely can result in a dull sound.

It’s important to find the right balance of tension for each string. As you tune, listen carefully to the sound of each string and adjust the tension accordingly.

3. Experiment with Microphone Placement

If you’re using an electronic tuner that relies on a microphone to detect the pitch of your ukulele, try experimenting with different microphone placements.

Placing the microphone too close to the sound hole can result in an inaccurate reading while placing it too far away can result in a weak signal. Try moving the microphone around until you find the sweet spot.

4. Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Tuning your ukulele can be frustrating, especially if you struggle to get it right. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a more experienced player or a music teacher.

They can offer valuable advice and guidance to help you get the best sound out of your instrument.

Ukulele Sizes and Tunings

If you are new to playing the ukulele, you may not be aware that there are different sizes of ukuleles available.

The four most common sizes are soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone. Each size has its own unique sound and tuning.

Soprano Ukulele Tuning

The soprano ukulele is the smallest and most popular size. It has a bright and cheerful sound that is perfect for beginners. The standard tuning for a soprano ukulele is GCEA. This tuning is also known as C tuning.

Concert Ukulele Tuning

The concert ukulele is slightly larger than the soprano and has a fuller sound. The standard tuning for a concert ukulele is also GCEA. However, the tension and scale length affect the tone of the ukulele.

Tenor Ukulele Tuning

The tenor ukulele is even larger than the concert and has a deeper and richer sound. The standard tuning for a tenor ukulele is also GCEA. However, some tenor ukuleles are tuned to DGBE, which is the same as the top four strings of a guitar.

Baritone Ukulele Tuning

The baritone ukulele is the largest and has a deep and mellow sound. The standard tuning for a baritone ukulele is DGBE, which is the same as the tuning for the top four strings of a guitar. This tuning is also known as G tuning.

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Ukulele Standard Tuning
A Recap

Hey, congrats! You’re now a pro at tuning your ukulele to the most common tunings. Tuning is an important skill for any player, so you’re off to a great start.

Quick recap: GCEA is the standard ukulele tuning, and re-entrant tuning means the fourth string is higher than the third string.

To calibrate your ukulele tunings, use a clip-on ukulele tuner and adjust the tuning pegs until each string matches the right pitch.

Keeping your uke in tune is key to getting the best sound possible. And don’t forget to practice – tuning may take some time, but you’ll get the hang of it!

Now it’s time to start strumming and let your creativity shine. Happy playing!

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FAQ's

What notes are the 4 strings on A ukulele?

The four strings on an A ukulele are tuned to the notes A, E, C#, and F#. They are typically tuned in a high G tuning, where the G string is tuned an octave higher than usual.

Why is the ukulele tuned GCEA?

The ukulele is tuned to GCEA because it provides a bright and cheerful strings sound, which us a characteristic of the instrument. This tuning also allows for easy chord shapes and makes it easy for beginners to learn and play songs.

Is standard uke tuning high G?

Yes, standard ukulele tuning is often called high G tuning because the G string is tuned to a higher octave than expected. This tuning is popular among ukulele players because it provides a bright and happy sound well-suited to the instrument.

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  • Lewis Turner Guitar
    Lewis Turner

    Lewis is a professional guitarist based in London, UK. Over the years he has built up a diverse career, including playing on West End shows such as The Lion King, Mamma Mia, Man of La Mancha, Bat Out Of Hell, Strictly Ballroom, The Band, The Last Tango, Jersey Boys, Jackie The Musical, Exposure, Beyond The Fence, Adrian Mole, WAGGS, Momentous Musicals, The Addams Family (UK Premier), Legally Blonde, Fame, Hairspray, Grease, The Wedding Singer and many more. He has been fortunate to work with some fantastic musicians over the years including Mark Knopfler and Guy Fletcher (Dire Straits). All in all, Lewis is just a phenomenally talented guitarist who is also a really nice chap! See him in action on the Ted's List YouTube channel under the playlist guitars section.

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↓ Click here to leave a comment ↓
  1. StringSavvy says:
    January 7, 2025 at 10:54 am

    Not to stir the pot, but isn’t ADF#B tuning more historically accurate for traditional ukulele songs from Hawaii? I find it fascinating how tuning methods can change the entire feel of a song, and sometimes, modern interpretations lean too heavily on standard tunings, overlooking the unique sounds that come with traditional tunings like ADF#B.

    Reply
  2. LilStrummer says:
    December 15, 2024 at 7:23 am

    D-tuning sounds cool gonna try it thanks for the tips
    Lewis

    Reply
  3. TuneMaster22 says:
    October 26, 2024 at 10:37 am

    Important point to mention, Lewis, about the low G tuning–it does indeed offer a wider range and a somewhat deeper sound that’s more aligned with guitars. This can be especially beneficial for those attempting to blend ukulele sounds into more traditional band setups where that extra depth can compensate for bass frequencies.

    Reply
  4. MelodyScribe says:
    September 9, 2024 at 11:31 am

    Hey Lewis , fantastic overview on ukulele tuning! I’ve been juggling with my guitar and a newly gifted ukulele, and the transition’s been quirky but fun. With the

    Reply
    • UkeNoobie says:
      January 7, 2025 at 10:54 am

      Would you guys suggest sticking with the high G tuning for a total beginner? kinda worried about learning curves.

      Reply
    • ChordStrummer says:
      November 19, 2024 at 10:50 am

      Hey MelodyScribe, I’ve been through the same phase transitioning from guitar to ukulele. Stick with it, and you’ll find the ukulele’s high G tuning incredibly unique and fun. It gives the uke that unmistakable bright sound.

      Reply

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